The Alvarez theory is a scientific theory that explains the extinction of the dinosaurs. It was first proposed by the father-son duo of Luis and Walter Alvarez in the 1980s. The theory suggests that a massive asteroid impact caused the extinction of the dinosaurs.
Definitions
The Alvarez theory is a scientific hypothesis that proposes that a massive asteroid impact caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. It suggests that the impact caused a global environmental catastrophe that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs and many other species.
Origin
The Alvarez theory was first proposed by Luis and Walter Alvarez in the 1980s. The theory was based on their research on a layer of clay found all over the world that is rich in iridium, a rare metal that is more common in asteroids than on Earth.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the Alvarez theory is “a scientific hypothesis proposing that the extinction of the dinosaurs was caused by a massive asteroid impact.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “a theory that the extinction of the dinosaurs was caused by the impact of a large asteroid or comet.”
Associations
The Alvarez theory is associated with the extinction of the dinosaurs and the study of geology and paleontology. It is also associated with the study of asteroids and their impact on Earth.
Synonyms
There are no synonyms for the Alvarez theory.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for the Alvarez theory.
The same root words
There are no root words for the Alvarez theory.
Example Sentences
- The Alvarez theory suggests that a massive asteroid impact caused the extinction of the dinosaurs.
- Many scientists now accept the Alvarez theory as the most likely explanation for the extinction of the dinosaurs.
- The Alvarez theory has led to a better understanding of the role of asteroids in shaping the history of life on Earth.